3 Types of Used Car Dealerships

by Kevin Smith Author

If you're looking for an economical vehicle, buying a secondhand one is great. Before you do so, learn what type of dealership to go to and how it works so you can save more money and time in purchasing. Here are the three types of used Chevy truck dealers in Floresville, TX and their respective characteristics.

Independent

An independent used car dealer is a locally owned shop that has no affiliation with a corporation, a franchise, or an automobile manufacturer. Owners are free to creatively sell their products to attract buyers. These are the best places to get discounts or negotiate pricing.

If you're planning to go with an independent dealer, keep in mind that these private entities aren't held accountable by a corporation. That means they don't share the same standards and warranties with national and multi-national brands. The result is an establishment that sells vehicles in different conditions.

This type is advantageous to those with basic auto-mechanic knowledge as they can distinguish good cars to land a good deal. However, people who are less experienced with automobiles will have to rely on the word of the seller. That's why you should do your research first or talk with a mechanic to improve your chances of buying a quality vehicle at a bargain.

Chain

A national or multinational corporation that sells used cars is called a chain dealership. This type usually has a partnership or is co-owned by banks and automotive brands, so it has access to rights of first refusal on used vehicles as well as their respective comprehensive warranties. To maintain this relationship and uphold an image, chain outlets follow a set of standards for the used cars they sell.

Since chain dealerships have to observe certain policies, they usually charge more than others. A percentage of the costs for maintaining corporate legitimacy, rights, and other fees are included in the vehicle's price. As a result, agents have little to no flexibility to negotiate pricing when selling a secondhand car.

If you go with a chain dealer, you may not be able to bargain with the sales representative, but you'll have the assurance that the car you'll buy will be worth its value. This is great for people who want to avoid the work and risk that come along with purchasing from a dealer with varying standards.

Franchise

Franchises are run by private entrepreneurs who sell products under a corporate banner. It has the features of both independent and chain dealerships. That means these establishments can adjust their prices to meet the needs of the local community while maintaining quality assurance and warranty programs for their products.

While standards are followed in a franchise location, branch owners usually have the leeway to buy and sell cars according to their judgment. This freedom can sometimes result in a hit-and-miss regarding the quality of the available vehicles in their shop and can also affect the price. Most franchises allow negotiations and discounts, but the visible price will be of a high value to give room for bargaining.

Keep these in mind when you're browsing through used Chevy truck dealers in Floresville, TX. If you're interested in learning how to get great deals in one of the 3 types of dealers, getting in touch with a certified seller helps.